A Metropolitan Police officer has been removed from frontline duties after a viral video showed the controversial arrest of a woman carrying a Palestinian flag during a peaceful demonstration in central London.
The footage, which has sparked widespread outrage across social media platforms, captures the moment the officer confronts the protester near the National Gallery in Trafalgar Square. The woman can be seen holding a sign reading 'Free Palestine' before being handcuffed and led away by multiple officers.
Controversial Confrontation Caught on Camera
Eyewitnesses reported that the protest had been largely peaceful until the intervention occurred. The video shows the officer approaching the woman and engaging in a brief conversation before proceeding with the arrest. Bystanders can be heard expressing shock and questioning the legal basis for detaining someone merely for displaying a flag.
A Metropolitan Police spokesperson confirmed that the officer involved has been temporarily reassigned to non-public facing duties pending a formal review. "We are aware of a video circulating on social media showing an arrest during a protest in central London," the statement read. "The officer has been removed from frontline duties while we conduct a thorough review of the circumstances."
Growing Tensions in Capital
The incident comes amid increasing tensions in London as pro-Palestinian demonstrations continue across the city. Previous protests have drawn thousands of participants calling for an immediate ceasefire in Gaza and condemning the ongoing conflict.
Human rights organisations have expressed concern about the policing of these demonstrations. "The right to peaceful protest is fundamental to our democracy," said a representative from Liberty. "While police have a duty to maintain public order, they must not disproportionately restrict people's right to express their political views."
The arrested woman was later released without charge, raising further questions about the necessity of the detention. Legal experts suggest that merely carrying a Palestinian flag does not constitute a criminal offence under UK law.
Community Reaction and Next Steps
The video has prompted strong reactions from both sides of the political spectrum. Some have defended the police's right to manage protests for public safety reasons, while others have condemned what they see as an attack on free speech.
The Metropolitan Police has stated that their Directorate of Professional Standards will conduct a comprehensive investigation into the incident. Meanwhile, community leaders have called for calm and emphasised the importance of maintaining dialogue between protest organisers and law enforcement.
This incident highlights the ongoing challenges facing police forces in balancing public safety with the protection of civil liberties during politically charged demonstrations.
